The Harry Brook led side suffers a major blow ahead of their crucial Super 8 match against Sri Lanka in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. All-rounder Jacob Bethell may not be allowed to bowl because of a finger injury. The match will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, the surface at this venue offers good amount of assistance to the spinners. The 22 year old All rounder injured the ring finger of his left hand while fielding against West Indies earlier in the tournament. Since then, he has been wearing tape on his hand. According to the ICC rules it the players are supposed to get a nod from umpire to use a tape on the bowling arm. However, fielders are usually allowed to wear tape. The England captain Harry Brook thinks that the team will face difficulties in obtaining necessary permissions. The team had made similar requests in earlier matches but did not get approval. Spin Likely to play Big Role England would have liked to use Bethell’s left-arm spin in these conditions. He had taken 4 for 11 against Sri Lanka at this same ground just weeks ago. That performance showed how useful he can be here. Spin bowling enabled England to achieve a 3-0 victory against Sri Lanka before the World Cup. The pitch still looks similar. Slow bowlers have done well at this venue, including during Australia’s match against Oman. England will need to rely on other part-time bowlers if Bethell is unable to bowl. Will Jacks has bowled in the tournament but has not always been consistent. England will lose some balance because they will no longer have Bethell available as a bowling option. Also Read | 3 Reasons Why South Africa Can Beat India in T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Weather Worries and Bethell’s Australia Comment Pallekele has experienced problems due to rain. The outfield has some soft areas because of frequent showers. Rain is possible to fall on match day. For the game to have a result in the Super 8 stage, both teams must bat at least five overs. England maintains a strong record against Sri Lanka in this cricketing format. They have won 11 matches in a row, including three recent wins at this ground. However, injury concerns and weather could make things harder. Bethell made a joke on the cricket performance of Australia national cricket team after their tournament exit. He said it was good to see their Ashes rivals knocked out. Australia started well but lost key matches and failed to reach the Super 8. Their exit surprised many fans. England will now direct their attention towards preparing themselves for their important test match against Sri Lanka.